Veteran Nollywood actor Emeka Ike has said love and marriage are not scams, insisting that relationships only become fraudulent when they are driven by hidden financial motives rather than genuine affection.
Speaking in an interview with BBC News Pidgin, which gained traction on Friday, the actor said authentic relationships should be built on love, honesty and mutual commitment, not material gain.
According to him, some people now see relationships as a means of survival, turning what should be a sacred bond into a transactional arrangement.
“Love and marriage are not scams. It only becomes a scam when someone enters a relationship because of what they want to get from the other person without being honest about their intentions,” he said.
Ike criticised individuals who pursue romantic relationships solely for financial benefits, describing such behaviour as deceptive and urging them not to disguise monetary interests as love.
He maintained that love remains the foundation of every healthy relationship and called on Nigerians to stop pretending to be in love for personal gain.
The actor also advised women not to allow social media narratives to shape their expectations of marriage, stressing that every relationship is unique and requires patience, understanding and mutual support.
He urged couples to focus on resolving challenges within their own homes instead of comparing their marriages with those portrayed online.
“Every relationship is different. Don’t let what you see on social media determine how you treat your spouse. Build your own home with understanding and commitment,” he said.
